Chess
Checkmate the king with strategy.
↑ This is Chess running right here in your browser — no download needed.
About the game
Chess is the quintessential strategy game: two armies of sixteen pieces maneuver on an 8x8 board to trap the opposing king. Master opening, tactics, and endgames to win.
How to play
Each piece moves uniquely. Develop your pieces, control the center, and launch attacks to deliver checkmate, where the enemy king cannot escape capture.
Tips & strategy
['Control the center with pawns and knights early.', 'Develop all pieces before attacking.', 'Watch for forks, pins, and back-rank mates.']
Advanced guide
Chess success starts with the basics: control the center, develop knights and bishops before launching attacks, and castle to safety. Learn to spot tactics - forks, pins, and skewers - and practice endgames, where precise king and pawn play decides games.
History & origins
Chess evolved from 6th-century Indian Chaturanga and is now a global competitive sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is checkmate?
The king is under attack with no legal move to escape.
What is a good opening?
Develop knights and bishops, control the center, castle early.
What is castling?
A king-rook move that tucks the king safely and activates a rook.
How does the pawn promote?
Reaching the last rank, it becomes a queen (usually).
What is a fork?
One move attacking two pieces at once.
How do I improve?
Study tactics puzzles and learn a few solid openings.
Where can I play Chess for free?
Right on this page — Chess is embedded above, free, legal, and with no download or sign-up. Play with your keyboard on desktop or touch controls on mobile. Your best score is saved in your browser, so it's still there next time. Every game here is original or open-source, with links that stay valid.